Playoff Preview: Upper Dublin vs Parkland

On Saturday, December 12, The Upper Dublin Flying Cardinals will take on the Parkland Trojans in their first ever PIAA state semifinal game (1 PM at Souderton). Both teams are extremely gifted and will come into Saturday’s game extra prepared to play. But are you, the fan, prepared to watch? Here are some things you should know before the Upper Dublin vs Parkland game:

Parkland is very talented. They have one of the state’s best offensive lines, which features some big bodies and has performed well each and every week. One of these lineman, Noel Brouse, will be taking his talents to play at Syracuse University next year. Other Parkland players will be playing at the next level as well. Quarterback Devante Cross has committed to Boston College, and wide receiver Kenny Yeboah will be playing at Temple University.

But the numbers are in Upper Dublin’s favor. This season, Upper Dublin has scored an average of 43 points per game. Parkland has averaged 37. Upper Dublin gave up only 8 points per game, while Parkland averages 13. Although the differential may seem small, the numbers do show that Upper Dublin consistently has scored more points and given up less points.

Both teams have tremendous quarterbacks. Upper Dublin quarterback Ryan Stover has passed for 2,291 yards and 25 touchdowns this season. Parkland quarterback Devonte Cross has passed for 2,294 yards and 21 touchdowns. The two quarterbacks also can run the ball. Stover has 977 yards on the ground and Cross has 1,340.

Parkland already has shown that they are beatable. On October 9, Liberty (which finished the season 8-4) beat Parkland 41-34. Parkland also played a very close game last week against La Salle, where they won by 3 in overtime. On the other hand, Upper Dublin comes into this game 14-0, with their closest victory being a 10 point win over Pennsbury. Besides the Pennsbury game, Upper Dublin has won each week by at least 21 points.

You will not want to miss this game! The kickoff temperature will be in the 60s with almost no chance of rain. This is unheard of for December football and will provide a beautiful setting for the game. In addition, there will be a large and energetic crowd, for both team’s fans can get to the game in under 45 minutes. This state semifinal game is a must see.